How to Combat Tartar Build-Up at Home: Insights from a Family Dentist in Lincolnwood, Illinois
If you want to ensure that your teeth are healthy, strong, and cavity-free, it’s important to do everything you can to combat tartar buildup at home. Unfortunately, many products on the market contain chemicals and abrasives that can damage your teeth further if used improperly. To help you avoid complications, this family dentist in Lincolnwood, Illinois is going to discuss some of the key things you should know about combating tartar buildup.
What Is Tartar?
Tartar is a calcified plaque that attaches to the teeth and gradually builds up. In general, tartar only forms on back teeth, but people who wear braces or have other orthodontic work done are more likely to form tartar on their front teeth. Weakened gums will also cause tartar formation, so it is crucial for your oral health that you maintain good dental hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
If you develop tartar buildup, there are three natural techniques you can use to remove it safely:
Baking Soda
The first and most effective way to remove tartar buildup is using baking soda. When combined with salt, baking soda creates a chemical reaction that is highly effective in removing tartar from your teeth.
First, dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in about 4 ounces of water. Then, use a dropper to apply the mixture to your teeth. Your family dentist in Lincolnwood, Illinois will recommend letting it sit for at least 15 minutes, then rinsing with lukewarm water afterward.
White Vinegar
Another easy way to remove tartar buildup is by using white vinegar. All you need to do is take a spoonful of white vinegar and swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds. The next step is to spit it out and rinse it off with water.
If you find that the tartar has been loosened, try scrubbing it away with a toothbrush or dental floss before rinsing again with water. Your family dentist in Lincolnwood, Illinois may also recommend doing this before brushing your teeth in the morning to get rid of any residual tartar from the night before.
Fruits Rich In Vitamin C
One way to reduce tartar buildup is by consuming vitamin C-rich foods like lemons and oranges. Foods high in this essential nutrient can produce an acidic environment in the mouth which combats tooth decay.
Vitamin C-rich foods also provide vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, C, and E and minerals like zinc, copper, and iron. These nutrients help protect your teeth from bacterial plaque buildup while the acidic nature breaks down this hardened substance on the tooth’s surface. Additionally, citrus fruits contain antioxidants that combat free radicals, which can otherwise lead to more serious dental problems.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is well known for its moisturizing and skincare benefits, but it also doubles as a natural way to remove tartar.
To get started, you will need cotton balls, baking soda, coconut oil, and hydrogen peroxide. Start by sprinkling baking soda on your teeth’s surface. Add one drop of coconut oil to the baking soda and let it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing with water. Let the area dry completely before applying hydrogen peroxide for about 10 seconds so that the area is saturated with oxygen bubbles. Rinse off the area again with water, then brush your teeth thoroughly with toothpaste.
Visit a Dentist
In many cases, home remedies for removing tartar buildup are not as effective as visiting a reputable family dentist in Lincolnwood, Illinois.
What most people don’t know is that your mouth may look healthy but still be suffering from hidden decay beneath the gum line. The only way to determine if you have any cavities or other problems is by having a thorough dental exam done by a dentist who has completed dental school and has years of experience diagnosing and treating oral diseases.
Final Thoughts
Tartar buildup on your teeth can result in decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss, but brushing and flossing alone are not enough to keep your pearly whites healthy. Fortunately, there are several all-natural ways to remove tartar buildup at home that you can incorporate into your daily routine.
Looking for a Family Dentist in Lincolnwood, Illinois?
While there are several things you can do at home to help combat tartar buildup, there is no substitute to a dentist visit. Are you ready for a professional teeth cleaning? If so, and if you’re looking for the top-rated family dentist in Lincolnwood, Illinois, look no further than Dr. Gordon J. Ziols (DDS, FAGD) and the team at Smile Innovations. Contact us today at (773) 763-1000 to schedule an appointment.